Do’s

1. Take a multivitamin tablet once a day. Make sure it contains calcium with vitamin D.
2. Drink a cup of milk with 1 spoon of protein powder daily.
3. Do breathing exercises daily even if your respiratory muscles are good. E.g deep breathing, blowing a straw, playing flute or mouth organ, pranayam.
4. Sing a song daily. It’s good for speech, lungs and mood. Get some fresh air outside daily.
5. Exercise all muscles of body daily without over exertion.
6. Appreciate people who help and support you in this tough time. And remember to Smile.
7. Help the patient in the ways he wants as he knows his body the best. Learn his ways and don’t make him ask for help everytime. Respect his body.
8. Treat him as a normal individual. Give love and affection but don’t over sympathize or show pity. Be compassionate. Make him feel he is needed.
9. Always instill positive attitude in the patient and the family. Encourage and give hope of life. Be optimistic and focus on life rather than the disease. Keep the environment cheerful and peaceful.

Dont’s

1. Don’t use MSG i.e. ajinomoto in food as it damages the nerves. So please don’t eat Chinese food which contains ajinomoto. [ If you have to eat Chinese food then order it without MSG ]
2. Don’t use ayurvedic medicines which contain heavy metals which are harmful to nerves especially in MND
3. Don’t use homeopathy meds which contain steroids as they can sometimes increase muscle weakness.
4. Don’t use fatty and oily food which causes fatty weight gain resulting in decreased mobility.
5. Don’t use mercury dental fillings, exposure to lead or other heavy metals and toxic fumes or gases.
6. Don’t get entangled in negative emotions like anger, frustration, tantrums, sadness and isolation.
7. Don’t repeatedly discuss about the disease or its course or prognosis of the disease in front of the patient.
8. Don’t stare at him while he is walking or eating with help.
9. Don’t take to heart if patient takes out the anger or frustration on you. As a family member it can be hard on you but be strong and don’t give up on the patient. Your moral support means a world to them. You too can share your feelings with friends or take professional counseling. Take help to take care of the patient. And remember to take care of yourself too.